Drug Treatment of Backache
Acetaminophen (Paracetamol)
Dosage
The usual oral dose of acetaminophen is 500-1,000 mg every six hours. Maximum permissible dose in 24 hours is 4,000 mg. The analgesic effect occurs after 30-60 minutes. While it is effective against mild to moderate pain, it does not reduce inflammation and muscle spasm.
Side effects
Skin redness and skin rashes (multiple raised, swollen, itchy skin areas) are occasionally observed. Long – term use of acetaminophen can cause harm to the kidneys.
Nonsteroidal anti- inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
First line of defense for acute lower back pain : NSAIDs are the drugs of choice as a first line agent for the control of acute lower back pain. They provide relief by their combined analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. The anti-inflammatory properties of these agents are observed when they are used in proper dose and the recommended dosages are then continued at regular intervals. However, prolonged use of anti-inflammatory medications, i.e. greater than 3-4 weeks, in the setting of acute lower back pain is generally not indicated and should be avoided.
NSAIDs reduce inflammation and relieve pain. They work by blocking the production of certain chemicals that cause inflammation and pain.
NSAIDs are effective in treating pain caused by slow, prolonged tissue damage, such as pain associated with an arthritic joint. They are also effective in treating acute general or localized pain, such as back pain, menstrual cramps and headaches. NSAIDs are better pain reducing drugs than acetaminophen.
